Look: Genteel Home Shows Gratitude to their Collaborators and Filipino Artisans

Genteel Home holds a Gratitude Luncheon for Manila’s glitterati. Find out what’s next for the artisan furniture brand

Words Mika Reyes
Photos by Genteel Home
December 16, 2024

Let’s talk about gratitude—not the Instagrammable kind featuring latte art and morning affirmations, but a tangible, heartfelt expression of thanks that feels as luxurious as it does genuine. One particular Pampanga-based furniture atelier has been practicing gratitude with grace as they face the new year. Genteel Home is setting a new gold standard in celebrating Filipino craftsmanship, sustainability, and the art of collaboration.

Recently, the atelier hosted a Gratitude Lunch that wasn’t just about breaking bread—it was a masterclass in showing appreciation. From Kapampangan artisans to key design talents, media darlings, and even local government officials, Genteel Home gathered the crème de la crème to honor the hands and minds behind their exquisite furniture. And yes, it was every bit as genteel as you’d imagine.

A Love Letter to Filipino Craftsmanship

Under the visionary leadership of Katrina De Leon, Principal Designer and founder, Genteel Home has been on a mission since 2013: to elevate Filipino design to the global stage. Each bespoke piece is a testament to the artistry and skill of local artisans, with De Leon’s signature #MadeWithLove philosophy woven into every detail.

But let’s be clear—this isn’t just about pretty furniture. Genteel Home’s designs aren’t content to simply sit in the corner looking fabulous (though they do that effortlessly); they’re storytellers, conversation starters, and heirlooms in the making.

Collaborations That Matter

Here’s where it gets even better, Genteel Home knows that it takes a village—or, in this case, a team of artisans, designers, and creative collaborators—to bring their vision to life. Whether it’s a bespoke chaise lounge that whispers of understated opulence or a curated living space that screams personality, their success is built on partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared passion.

At the Gratitude Lunch, De Leon eloquently said, “Today, we honor the artisans whose hands transform ideas into tangible works of art, the talented team that breathes life into our vision, and the media and creatives who amplify our story to the world.” Pass the champagne, Katrina, because that’s a toast worth making.

Sustainability, But Make It Chic

In a move that makes us all want to applaud (and maybe reassess our carbon footprints), Genteel Home has pledged 3% of its project revenue to the Haribon Foundation’s reforestation efforts. It’s not just lip service; it’s a commitment to ensuring that the lush natural resources inspiring their designs remain for generations to come. As De Leon put it, “We honor the resources that sustain us by supporting reforestation efforts.”

And if that weren’t enough, 2025 will see Genteel Home launching training workshops for aspiring artisans—a move that combines altruism with savvy business sense. It’s about preserving Filipino craftsmanship while creating livelihoods and ensuring the talent pipeline remains as strong as their solid-wood dining tables.

Furniture That’s Functional, Fabulous, and Full of Heart

Whether you’re into their off-the-rack collection—a dreamy blend of nostalgia and modernity—or looking to collaborate on a bespoke piece that screams “you,” Genteel Home has something for every aesthetic. And if a full-blown interior overhaul is what you’re after, their curated spaces service ensures your personality shines through in every detail.

As De Leon proudly declares, “We are not just creating furniture; we are crafting experiences. Filipino design deserves recognition, not just locally but internationally.”

Legacy in the Making

From its humble beginnings in 2013 with a single commissioned piece to its current status as a lifestyle brand that’s both luxurious and relatable, Genteel Home is a shining example of how design can inspire, uplift, and—dare we say it—change the world.

So, whether you’re shopping for a statement chair or simply need a little inspiration for your next “I’m feeling fancy” moment, Genteel Home has you covered. Because, darling, isn’t it time we all lived a little more genteelly?

For more inspiration, visit Genteel Home’s atelier in Pampanga or their Podium store, and follow them on social media for daily doses of design brilliance.